How many justices are on the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court of the United States has nine justices. This number has been in place since 1869 and is established by Congress. The nine justices consist of one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. Their primary role is to interpret the Constitution and federal law, and they have the authority to make decisions on significant legal issues that can have far-reaching implications for American society.

Having a fixed number of justices helps maintain consistency in the Court's operations and ensures that decisions are made by a collective body rather than an individual. Each justice plays a crucial role in shaping the law and the interpretation of the Constitution, as decisions often hinge on a balance of different viewpoints among the justices. This structure contributes to the checks and balances established by the Constitution, helping to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.